In a stunning act of generosity that’s rippling far beyond the gridiron, Kansas State quarterback Avery Johnson has donated an eye-popping $7 million to multiple charities across Kansas and the Midwest. The 20-year-old rising star, who recently became one of the most recognizable faces in college football, said he made the contribution to “give back to the communities that built me.”
The donation, which was confirmed by Kansas State officials and Johnson’s NIL team, will be distributed among several organizations, including children’s hospitals, education funds, youth sports programs, and mental health initiatives. The quarterback—already hailed as the future of the Wildcats—called the move a “no-brainer.”
“I’ve been blessed with more than I ever imagined at my age. It’s time I pass that forward,” Johnson said in a statement. “This is about impact, not headlines. It’s bigger than football.”
The announcement came just weeks after Johnson led Kansas State to a dominant spring performance, cementing his role as both the emotional and athletic leader of the team. At only 20, he’s not only rewriting playbooks but now also redefining what college athletes can achieve off the field.
Social media exploded after the news broke, with fans and public figures praising Johnson’s leadership and generosity. “This kid is the real deal—on and off the field,” one former K-State legend tweeted.
Insiders say the donation was made possible through a combination of NIL earnings and private partnerships Johnson negotiated through his management team. The quarterback, who welcomed twin children with his wife Kayla late last year, reportedly wanted to focus part of the funds on family-centered support services.
Kansas State head coach Chris Klieman said Johnson’s decision reflects the program’s core values. “Avery’s heart is just as big as his arm,” he told reporters. “He’s not just a quarterback. He’s a legacy in the making.”
If there were any doubts about who the face of Kansas State football—and perhaps college football as a whole—is, Avery Johnson just erased them.
